Design-Build
Graybar Electric
What is Design-Build?
True design-build is a procedure for owners to contract with a single entity for both the design and construction of site-built improvements, including buildings. It varies from the "traditional" method of contracting in North America, where the owner normally first contracts with a design professional, such as an architect or an engineer, to design the improvement, then separately contracts with a general contractor to build the facility. There are many variations of the design-build process.
While the design-build process is not ideally suited for every project, or every owner, we have found that in many instances we can deliver a completed project more quickly, meeting the client?s requirements more closely or with fewer problems.
In addition, with true design-build, the owner has one point of contact and one key source of responsibility, thereby making the management of a design-build project easier, and less time consuming, than with the traditional delivery method.
At J.R. Abbott Construction Inc., we have successfully completed design-build projects for owners in the Medical, Grocery, and Distribution industries.
The History of Design-Build
The traditional delivery method requires the owner/developer to manage two completely different disciplines (Architect & Contractor) and contracts, without fully understanding how one entity reacts with and impacts the other. This type of delivery system also required the owner to often act as a referee to help with conflict resolution between the Architect and Contractor.
In response to these common frustrations that are often experienced by Owners, the design-build approach has seen resurgence since the mid-1960's in both the private and public sectors of the industry. Currently, design-build amounts to approximately 35% of the overall, non-residential construction spending on a yearly basis and it is believed that this percentage will eventually grow to 40% by the year 2005.
At J.R. Abbott Construction Inc., we believe the most important reason why this design-build resurgence has gained such momentum is that this process allows the owner to focus on their core business and customers or to pursue the next deal.
